Blue Star Moms, Texas Instruments welcome homeless vets for breakfast

Veterans Day was particularly special this year for 43 homeless veterans thanks to volunteers from Texas Instruments and the South Bay Blue Star Moms.

The veterans, who all receive services and shelter through EHC LifeBuilders, were hosted for breakfast at Applebee's, 51 Curtner Ave., in Willow Glen.

Some 50 volunteers from Texas Instruments worked as waiters and also entertained, playing music and singing popular songs from the 1960s and '70s.

At the end of the morning of fellowship, each of the veterans was given a new backpack filled with essential provisions, including toiletries, stationery and food, as well as a sincere thank you.

Bonnie Estrada, a software systems engineer at Texas Instruments and a member of the board of the South Bay Blue Star Moms, spearheaded the event. Her goal was to provide fellowship for veterans who often get forgotten.

"This event is important," Estrada said, "because spending a few minutes listening to stories and thanking a veteran for their service is not hard, yet so well received."

Estrada's son served in the Army in Iraq, earning a Bronze Star, and continues to serve on active reserve.

"My son has a family that supports his decision and praises his bravery," she said.

"It's sad to think there are people who don't have the same support and I would only hope, if something ever happened to me, that his sacrifice would not be forgotten."